Is my old upright piano worth any money?

The honest answer is that most old upright pianos are worth very little, and some cost money to get rid of. Many households had one, newer digital pianos are lighter and need no tuning, and moving a piano takes a specialized crew. Plenty of owners find they can't give one away.

The exceptions are pianos from top makers like Steinway, Mason and Hamlin, and some Bechstein and Bluthner models, especially grands in good condition. A well-maintained upright from a respected maker that holds a tune can find a buyer, and pianos with exceptional art cases or historic interest occasionally do well.

What decides value is the maker, the condition of the soundboard, pinblock, strings and hammers, whether it holds a tune, and the cabinet's appearance. Cracked soundboards, loose tuning pins and sticky keys are expensive problems.

Before trying to sell, pay a piano technician to inspect it. Their assessment tells you whether it's worth marketing or simply worth finding a good home. Some schools and churches will accept a piano in good playing condition.